Ways to Make Time Off From Work Work for You

By

Dana Mattioli

Updated Feb. 24, 2009 12:01 a.m. ET

As furloughs gain in popularity, more white-collar workers will be exposed to the measure, which ultimately results in a reduced salary. Still, there are ways to make the best of a furlough that can keep money in your pocket and even help you take the next steps in your career -- starting with how you take the time.

First, if you find yourself furloughed, speak to human resources to see if you qualify for unemployment benefits during...